Newest orca brings girl power to endangered whales
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The pod's newest female, J62, tags along with grandmother J19 and J37. Photo: Center for Whale Research/NMFS Permit 27038
The newest member of the endangered southern resident orcas is a female, the Center for Whale Research announced after a recent sighting.
Why it matters: With fewer than 80 southern resident killer whales left, every birth is crucial — but a female calf brings extra hope for the species' survival.
Driving the news: The new calf, known as J62, was "filling out nicely," rolling around and "bouncing" among family members, the center reported.
Catch up quick: The birth was recorded just days before the death of another newborn female calf, J61, who was born in mid-December but was confirmed dead on New Year's Eve.
State of play: On Feb. 15, whale researchers spotted several JPod members spread out and surfing near Victoria, B.C.
- Among them was J47, a 14-year-old sprouter, speeding through the waves alongside his mother, Tahlequah, known for previously carrying her dead calves in mourning.
- Researchers continued on and soon found J62, the pod's newest baby, tucked alongside her mother, J41.